Transport Crew Volunteer – Helping Shelter Pets Reach Their Next Chapter
Every transport represents a new beginning for dozens of shelter animals. Through partnerships with rescue organizations across the country, dogs and cats from Fort Worth Animal Care & Control are able to travel to areas where adopters and resources are more available. These life-changing journeys require careful preparation, teamwork, and dedicated support behind the scenes. Transport Crew Volunteers help make these lifesaving trips possible.
In this role, volunteers assist staff during the multi-day process that prepares animals for transport. Over the course of several days, animals are dropped off by fosters, receive final medical checks, and are prepared for safe travel to their destination rescues. Volunteers help keep this process running smoothly by supporting animal care, maintaining clean kennel spaces, and helping prepare animals for the next stage of their journey.
During the first stage, volunteers help welcome animals arriving from foster homes and prepare them for their upcoming medical checks. This may include walking dogs to reduce kennel stress, spot cleaning kennels, and assisting staff with general organization so animals remain comfortable and calm while they wait.
The following day is often focused on veterinary checks, when animals receive health certificates required for transport. Volunteers help keep the day running efficiently by assisting with kennel cleaning, walking dogs between appointments, and helping staff as animals move through the exam process. Maintaining a calm environment helps animals remain relaxed during a busy day of preparation.
Transport day is the final step in the journey. Volunteers help ensure animals are comfortable and ready to travel by assisting with morning walks, light cleaning, and preparing crates. When it’s time for departure, volunteers may assist staff with safely loading animals onto transport vehicles while helping keep the environment calm and organized.
This role is ideal for volunteers who enjoy working as part of a team in a dynamic environment. Tasks may include animal handling, walking dogs, light cleaning, organizing supplies, and assisting staff as animals move through the transport process. Volunteers who enjoy hands-on work and want to see the direct impact of their efforts often find this role incredibly rewarding.
Each transport helps relieve overcrowding in the shelter and creates space for more animals in need. By helping prepare animals for these trips, volunteers play an essential role in giving pets the opportunity to find homes where resources and adopters are waiting. Every crate loaded represents a dog or cat leaving the shelter behind and beginning the journey toward a new life.
Before getting started, volunteers must complete Animal Health, Animal Handling, Animal Behavior, and Dog Caretaker training to ensure safe and positive interactions with shelter animals.
To view and complete our trainings - CLICK HERE
Sign up to volunteer with the Transport Crew - CLICK HERE